Kevin Willard quote book: UConn

On giving up offensive rebounds:

“I think our defensive effort has been really good, it’s that we haven’t been finishing possessions the last couple of days. I’m proud of these guys, I’m proud of this team. I love the way they battled, I love the way they came through February, and I think we’re a little tired, to be honest with you, Jerry. It’s been a long February and then March with the four games already in March, but I’m proud of them. I’m proud of these guys, I’m proud of the way they battled. I think a couple of days off for these guys is going to be really beneficial. I think our front line, as good as they’ve been, I think they’re a little tired, just to be honest with you. So a couple days off, Selection Sunday and kind of get refocused, it’s not going to be a bad thing.”

On Kadary Richmond:

“Kooks has been phenomenal. Going into the year, we were really looking for someone that could be a multidimensional point guard — a guy that can score, a guy that can get guys involved — and he’s exceeded my expectations as the year has gone on. He’s battled a really tough thumb injury for most of the season, too. He’s been, I think he has made tremendous progress, and I think we were talking about this just the other day, what he needs to do to get to the next level. He’s a hard worker, he’s got a great attitude, he’s got a very good knowledge for the game and I think you’re just starting to see him scratching the surface of what kind of player he’s going to be.”

On Jared Rhoden:

“Jared left everything on the floor, he played his heart out. Give Tyrese Martin a little credit for playing really good defense, that’s the way I look at it. Jared will be fine, he’s a big boy. And this team, I love where this team is at. I love where they’re at even when we get down 14 late in the second half, the young man to the right of me (Myles Cale) — the leadership that he’s developed and the man he’s turned into, it’s been fun to watch. It’s disappointing, but UConn’s good, man. UConn’s good.”